News Summary
The OC Japan Fair will be held at the OC Fair & Event Center, featuring cultural activities, music performances, and interactive experiences. Scheduled from October 17 to 19, the event expects to attract over 40,000 visitors, celebrating the rich heritage of Japan. Highlights include a tuna cutting show, a cosplay contest, traditional music performances, and interactive games. This fair aims to bridge the gap between Japanese culture and American audiences through engaging activities and community participation, showcasing a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity.
Costa Mesa, California – The OC Japan Fair 2025 is scheduled to take place from October 17-19, 2025, at the OC Fair & Event Center located at 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa. This highly anticipated event will feature an array of cultural activities and a vibrant music festival aiming to celebrate and showcase Japanese culture to the American audience. The event is expected to attract over 40,000 visitors from Orange County and beyond.
The fair will open on Friday, October 17, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, followed by Saturday, October 18, from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and concluding on Sunday, October 19, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Admission is priced at $17 when purchased before October 16, and will increase to $20 after this date. Additionally, children aged 6 and under and seniors aged 65 and over can attend for free. A parking fee of $12 will apply.
Attractions and Activities
Attendees can look forward to a plethora of attractions, including a cosplay show, a mesmerizing tuna cutting show featuring a chef from a renowned Japanese tuna company, and performances by popular Japanese artists and comedians. The fair will also offer traditional music showcasing Japanese instruments, as well as engaging games and activities tailored for visitors of all ages.
Cultural interactions will highlight Japanese traditions, such as taiko drumming, flower arranging, and tea ceremonies. One of the event’s standout features will be the “release” of paper lanterns on October 18 at 8 PM, providing a stunning visual experience. Additionally, attendees can explore a vibrant area themed around AKIHABARA ELECTRIC TOWN, which will include maid cafés and anime merchandise.
Freedom LA Music Festival
A significant highlight of the event is the Freedom LA Japanese Music Festival, which will showcase a variety of artists, including MINMI and DOZAN11. The festival will feature live performances on different stages, namely the OC Stage and Nakamise Stage, with emcees including Derek Mio, Tiffany, and Kohei.
Interactive Features
Community participation will be encouraged through interactive activities such as Bon Odori dancing and Shodo (Japanese calligraphy) demonstrations. Furthermore, the event will host kimono models who will present traditional attire, adding to the immersive cultural experience.
Historical Context
The OC Japan Fair aims to bridge the gap between Japanese culture and the American audience, fostering a deeper interest in Japan as a travel destination. It provides an opportunity for visitors to engage with various aspects of Japanese culture, from culinary traditions to art forms, in a festive atmosphere.
By highlighting Japan’s rich heritage and modern influences, the OC Japan Fair serves as more than just an event; it is a celebration of cultural diversity and a platform for cultural exchange. Visitors are encouraged to take part and experience firsthand the unique offerings of the Japanese community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Los Angeles Events Weekend Highlights
Los Angeles Uncovers Historical Repatriation Ties During the Great Depression
Orange County Fair Opens with New Attractions and Food
Additional Resources
- Rafu: OC Japan Fair this Weekend in Costa Mesa
- LA Times: OC Japan Fair Returns
- Secret Los Angeles: Largest Japanese Street Food Festival
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Japanese Culture
- PRWeb: Experience Japan in SoCal
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
